6 Surely you desire integrity in the inner self, and you teach me wisdom deep within.

7 Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice.

9 Turn your face away from my sins and blot out all my guilt.

10 God, create a clean heart for me and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

11 Do not banish me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.

12 Restore the joy of your salvation to me, and sustain me by giving me a willing spirit.

13 Then I will teach the rebellious your ways, and sinners will return to you.

Christian Standard Bible (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2020), Ps 51:6–13

    This passage comes in the context of King David crying out to the LORD after his sin with Bathsheba. We have all shared in that feeling of separation from God because of our sin. We can feel unworthy to be near Him.

    Here, David acknowledges his sin but also calls on the mercy and grace of God. He understands that he cannot change these sinful desires on his own; he calls on God for help.

    This same help in transforming his heart and life that David found in God is also available to us; if we would only ask. If you are struggling with sin, and that guilt is keeping you from the LORD, know that He is there to help. Just humble yourself and ask. Allow His Spirit to reveal, restore, and strengthen you as you draw into the presence of our loving God.